Martin Karikari fires Hearts of Oak past Basake Holy Stars into top with third straight win

Martin Karikari scored a stunning 82nd-minute winner as Hearts of Oak beat Basake Holy Stars 1-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium to move top of the Ghana Premier League after Friday’s Matchday 8 encounter. 

The forward produced a brilliant left-footed finish to settle a closely contested game and extend the Phobians’ winning run to three matches. 

Hearts had threatened earlier, with Ransford Mensah’s free-kick crashing against the crossbar before Basake Holy Stars made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny the hosts. However, Karikari found the breakthrough late in the second half to secure all three points. 

The victory continues Hearts’ strong run under coach Nebojša Kapor, following their recent wins over Port City FC and Vision FC. The result takes them to the top of the league table, although Sunday’s fixtures could still change the standings. 

Kapor was pleased with the quality of the decisive goal, saying: “I’m happy especially how we scored. That is a really, really good goal.” 

Defender Kelvin Osei Asibey was named NASCO Man of the Match, extending his personal run to three consecutive awards. His performances have been a key part of Hearts’ defensive solidity during their recent winning streak. 

For Basake Holy Stars, the defeat ends their hopes of taking points from a difficult away fixture, despite their disciplined defending for much of the contest. They are still yet to pick a point on the road with this being their fourth away defeat. 

Hearts will now look to maintain their momentum as they seek to strengthen their position at the summit of the Ghana Premier League.